Writing: Sentence Construction & Variety (A2) - Lesson 2: Using 'and,' 'but,' 'so' to Connect Simple Sentences
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Hello Learners! 👋
Today, we will learn how to connect two simple sentences using special joining words called conjunctions. This helps us make longer, more interesting sentences called compound sentences.
We will focus on three useful conjunctions: and, but, and so.
In this lesson, you will learn:
- What "and", "but", and "so" mean and how to use them.
- How to use a comma , before these conjunctions when joining two full sentences.
- To practice making compound sentences.
Connecting Sentences with Conjunctions
Conjunctions are like bridges that connect words, phrases, or simple sentences.
1. Using "and"
"And" is used to join similar ideas or to add information.
Simple sentence 1: The cat is black.
Simple sentence 2: The cat is small.
Combined: The cat is black, and it is small. (You can also say: "The cat is black and small.")
Simple sentence 1: I like pizza.
Simple sentence 2: My brother likes burgers.
Combined: I like pizza, and my brother likes burgers.
2. Using "but"
"But" is used to show a contrast or something unexpected between two ideas.
Simple sentence 1: He is tired.
Simple sentence 2: He wants to play.
Combined: He is tired, but he wants to play.
Simple sentence 1: She likes coffee.
Simple sentence 2: She does not like tea.
Combined: She likes coffee, but she does not like tea.
3. Using "so"
"So" is used to show a result or a consequence.
Simple sentence 1: It was raining.
Simple sentence 2: We stayed inside.
Combined: It was raining, so we stayed inside.
Simple sentence 1: I studied for the test.
Simple sentence 2: I got a good grade.
Combined: I studied for the test, so I got a good grade.
Important Punctuation: When you join two complete simple sentences (each with its own subject and verb) using and, but, or so, you usually put a comma (,) before the conjunction.
Activity 1: Choose the Correct Conjunction
Read the two simple sentences. Choose the best conjunction (and, but, or so) to connect them.
Activity 2: Combine the Sentences
Combine the two simple sentences using the conjunction given. Remember to use a comma before the conjunction and a full stop at the end. Start the new sentence with a capital letter.
Activity 3: What's the Missing Conjunction?
Read the sentence. Choose the best conjunction (and, but, or so) to fill in the blank.
✨ Tips for Using "and," "but," "so" ✨
- "and" = Plus (+): Use "and" to add one idea to another similar idea. (e.g., "I like apples and I like oranges.")
- "but" = Different/Surprise: Use "but" when the second idea is different or surprising compared to the first. (e.g., "It is sunny, but it is cold.")
- "so" = Result (arrow →): Use "so" when the second idea is a result of the first idea. (e.g., "I was hungry, so I ate a sandwich.")
- Comma Check: If you are joining two full sentences (each could be a sentence on its own), put a comma , before "and," "but," or "so."
Great Connecting! 🎉
You've learned how to use "and," "but," and "so" to make longer and more meaningful sentences. This is a great skill for your English writing!